With the new year, comes more opportunities to discover the natural beauty of the surrounding canyons. With monthly self-guided access days in addition to docent-led beginner programs and a new foot bridge, exploring local open space is much easier.

OC Parks has partnered with Irvine Ranch Conservancy to expand popular monthly Wilderness Access Days to Black Star and Baker Canyons. The Wilderness Access Days were held monthly in Limesone Canyon, and beginning Saturday, the Wilderness Access Days will rotate monthly between Black Star and Limestone canyon staging areas. New trails in Baker Canyon were opened in October 2012, and this month a new bridge over Baker Creek will connect the staging area directly to the new SilMod Loop trail.

This new path will make it easier for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians to move between trails without having to travel along Baker Canyon Road, thanks to the eco-friendly 50-foot bridge in a canyon.

Staff and volunteers are on hand throughout the trail systems, so even less experienced outdoor enthusiasts can hit the trails with confidence. During each Wilderness Access Day, the Conservancy also leads a beginner-level hike, teaching the basics in topics such as wildlife, plants and trail etiquette. During Saturday's Black Star Canyon Wilderness Access Day, a birding specialist will lead "Bird Walk in Baker Meadow" at 10 a.m., a beginner birding hike.

During winter months, Wilderness Access Days begin at 9 a.m., with trails closing at 3 p.m. The events are free, and pre-registration is strongly encouraged. For more information or to sign up, visit http://www.irlandmarks.org/activities.

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